You have all heard about the latest ‘flu scare, Swine Flu. Here are some facts (updated May 2009). All influenzas are viruses. There are thousands of ‘flu viruses, and the seasonal ‘flu usually consists of several viruses together. Swine ‘flu is a virus that seems to be a combination of human, pig and bird forms.
Swine ‘flu usually affects pigs, in fact it’s quite common in pigs. Occasionally humans become infected, especially those in close contact with pigs, and a couple of cases are reported every year. This year there are more cases.
Swine ‘flu is caught in the same ways as any ‘flu:
Person-to-person contact
Touching something that someone with the virus has also touched
Breathing droplets from someone’s cough or sneeze.
We can protect ourselves in the usual ways: Wash hands regularly: ordinary soap and water and a clean towel are as good as anything.
Some sources recommend avoiding greeting others with handshakes or kisses - for a while.
If you develop ‘flu symptoms, stay off work or school.
Consider what arrangements you need to make if your children are sent home from school.
Cover your face if you sneeze or cough.
You do not need to wear a face mask, unless you are in a busy place where there is a known outbreak.
You do not need to cover every surface in your home with disinfectant.
Symptoms are similar to any ‘flu:
Fever
Cough
Sore throat
Aches and pains
Headache
Weakness and tiredness
Occasionally diarrhoea and vomiting
In ordinary 'flu, the most vulnerable are the elderly, the very young, and those with a compromised immune system. Malnutrition and poor living conditions (widespread in Mexico) also make people more vulnerable to infection and complications. Unusually, Swine 'flu appears to affect youngsters of school age and young adults.
First reports about swine 'flu were alarming, but news of more recent infections shows that the virus is less harmful than at first thought.
If you plan to travel, check the latest outbreaks at http://cdc.gov/, click on Traveller’s Information.
There is no vaccine yet and it will take months to make one. The regular ‘flu jab is not effective against swine ‘flu. Bear in mind we can never make vaccines for all the thousands of different ‘flu viruses, and even if we could, who would want that many vaccinations? Vaccines are in any case only partially effective.
You may increase your immunity in many ways:
Don’t panic, first because the fear is not warranted, and second because it will tend to lower your immune system!
Check your nutrient intake especially vitamin C, Zinc, Garlic. Avoid overeating or consuming excess sugar, alcohol or artificial foods.
Natural anti-virals include Oregon Grape, Olive Leaf, Echinacea, Garlic*, Astragalus*.
* not suitable for those taking anti-coagulant medication
Consider using a homeopathic remedy:
Gelsemium 30C or Influenzinum 30C once a month may help to protect you. Increase to once a week if there is a known outbreak near you, and once a day if you know you have been exposed to ‘flu. Stop when there is no risk!
Pre-biotics such as FOS, and Pro-biotics such as Lactobacillus, optimise gut health and increase white blood cell activity to fight infection.
Consider a Natural Health REPORT for more personalised advice on boosting your immune system, and for full safety guidance on using supplements.
Wash hands regularly: ordinary soap and water and a clean towel are as good as anything.